Ross Medical Associates

Things always happen for a reason, my mom used to say. Of course, it was said in Italian, but we understood the significance of the statement. No matter what happens, we learn from situations.

I inadvertently uncovered Capistrano's latest neighborhood treasure. And what a fortuitous find.

Who would have thought that Halloween night would prove mom's blessed soul to be right again?

Misfortune prompted this writer to discover by necessity another SJC surprise – the 3-year-old Ross Medical Associates urgent care/family practice group. Available for immediate needs and continuing primary care, this comprehensive medical practice is truly one of a kind. Everyday physician coverage is provided.

From the friendly, welcoming voices of Lauren, the group's perky receptionist, and Mark, the medical assistant answering my initial call for help with reassurance, to Dr. Lizander Pandy, the gentle main practitioner, concern for neighbors in need was palpable. From a patient's point of view, my firsthand experience of this caring office was soothing, especially when one's hurting and in need of stitches in one's right palm.

"Care of the whole patient and their family is the purpose of us being here. It's not just urgent care needs. We're able to provide medical care for patients who may not have a family physician," according to Dr. Karl Gebhard, who eagerly points out the office's wide range of services and cutting-edge systems, including electronic medical records and paperless prescriptions sent directly to pharmacists.

Seeing how patients progress in their health management real-time allows physicians and patients to plan appropriate strategies to maintain good health practices. In addition, preventive care, chronic care management, X-ray capability and immunizations are immediately available. All services have a holistic approach, so be prepared to be educated about nutrition, even if you're there for a laceration repair, as I was.

Why San Juan Capistrano? Well, a community-needs assessment, serendipity and location fueled the master plan. Essentially, proximity to I-5 provides neighbors in Dana Point and San Clemente easy access to the seven-day-a-week facility.

Community involvement includes participation in the annual Swallows Parade, membership in the Chamber of Commerce and an exceptional clinical service: free adolescent sports physicals. The main physician at the site, Dr. Pandy, is a local high school team physician. His outdoor endeavors include mountain biking and motor sports. So, SJC is a natural fit for this young practitioner. Lucky for us.

Funny, it had always been expressed by my physician colleagues that in life it is certainly better to be the physician and not the patient. According to medical history or legend, being both patient and physician meant all bets are usually off. Guess my Ross Medical Associates visit busted another myth.

Robert Manniello is a medical doctor who is a longtime contributor to the Capistrano Valley News. You can contact him at MannielloRL@aol.com.

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